Docking station for coupling autonomous vacuum to central vacuum

ABSTRACT

A central vacuum system for collecting debris can include an autonomous vacuum system and a central vacuum fluidly connected to a remote intake port, the central vacuum being operable to generate a central airflow into the remote intake port. The autonomous vacuum system can comprise a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake and further include an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin. The autonomous vacuum system can further comprise an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin. The output connector can be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document pertains generally, but not by way of limitation, to a system for autonomously gathering debris in a space within an autonomous vacuum system and autonomously disposing of the gathered debris.

BACKGROUND

Autonomous or robotic vacuum cleaners commonly comprise a self-propelled vacuum unit that autonomously travels through a space vacuuming debris from the floor onto an onboard storage space or bin. Typically, the robotic vacuum units are significantly smaller than conventional vacuum cleaners to permit the robotic units to more maneuver around and beneath obstacles and unobtrusively parking when not in use. However, the comparatively smaller size of the robotic units that the internal components, such as the internal debris bin, be correspondingly miniaturized. Also, robotic vacuum units also include components not ordinarily found in conventional vacuum cleaners, such as batteries or movement systems, requiring further miniaturization of the other internal components. As such, a common drawback of robotic vacuum units is that the small internal debris bin quickly fills and must frequently be emptied, typically by hand.

Failing to properly or regularly emptying the internal debris bin reduces the efficiency of the vacuum unit for gathering debris can be diminished, or the vacuum unit may cease to gather debris if the debris bin is full. As vacuum units are typically programmed to clean at times when people are absent from the space or sleeping, the vacuum units can fill the debris bin before the intended cleaning is complete forcing a pause in cleaning until emptying of the debris bin. The frequent manual emptying of the debris bin can be inconvenient and can create unplanned pauses in the cleaning process if the debris bin is insufficiently or infrequently emptied. Similarly, opening the debris bin to empty the bin often exposes the collected debris to the air allowing the dust and other debris to be released, which can reduce the overall air quality within the space.

Overview

The present inventors have recognized, among other things, that a problem to be solved can include regularly and efficiently emptying debris from a robotic vacuum unit. In an example, the present subject matter can provide a solution to this problem, such as by providing an autonomous vacuum system that can move about a space collecting debris and configured to couple to a central vacuum that can draw collected debris into a remote intake port to the central vacuum. The autonomous vacuum system can move about the space in a predetermined pattern or randomly within a bounded area collecting debris from the floor of the space. After the autonomous vacuum system has filled an internal collection bin or after a predetermined time, the autonomous vacuum system can be maneuvered to couple the autonomous vacuum system to the remote intake port of the central vacuum. The central vacuum can be operated to create a central airflow drawing debris collected within the internal collection bin to empty the collection bin.

In an example, an autonomous vacuum system for collecting debris in a remote space can comprise a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake. The autonomous vacuum system can further include an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin. The autonomous vacuum system can further comprise an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin. The output connector can be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.

The movement system can move the autonomous vacuum system between a docked position in which the output connector is coupled to the remote intake port and an undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the remote intake port. The onboard vacuum can generate the suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked position. The onboard vacuum can generate the suction airflow and the central vacuum configured to generate the central airflow when in the docked position to agitate debris within the collection bin.

In an example, a central vacuum system for collecting debris within a remote space can include an autonomous vacuum system and a central vacuum fluidly connected to a remote intake port, the central vacuum being operable to generate a central airflow into the remote intake port. The autonomous vacuum system can comprise a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake and further include an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin. The autonomous vacuum system can further comprise an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin. The output connector can be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.

The central vacuum system can include a dock for receiving the autonomous vacuum system. The dock can comprise a docking port fluidly connected to the remote intake port and at least one alignment feature. The at least one alignment feature can be configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align the output connector with the docking port.

This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the present subject matter. The detailed description is included to provide further information about the present patent application.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, like numerals may describe similar components in different views. Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent different instances of similar components. The drawings generally illustrate, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments discussed in the present document.

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic side view of an autonomous vacuum system according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a schematic side view of a central vacuum system including an autonomous vacuum system coupled to a central vacuum according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 3 depicts a schematic side view of the central vacuum system depicted in FIG. 2 illustrating a reverse airflow through a filter of the autonomous vacuum system according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a schematic side view of a central vacuum system including an autonomous vacuum system coupled to a central vacuum and having at least one jet opening into a collection bin of the autonomous vacuum system according to an example of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a collection bin according to an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a top view of the collection bin depicted in FIG. 7.

FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a collection bin according to an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a top view of the collection bin depicted in FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a central vacuum system having an autonomous vacuum system mounted to a dock according to an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a central vacuum system received within a garage according to an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of a central vacuum system configured to deposit debris in a floor port according to an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic side view of an autonomous vacuum system having an interchangeable module according to an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view of an autonomous vacuum system having a first interchangeable module and a second interchangeable module according to an example of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating movement an autonomous vacuum system within a space according to an example of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As depicted in FIG. 1, an autonomous vacuum system 20, according to an example of the present disclosure, can comprise a housing 22, an onboard vacuum 24, and a collection bin 26. The onboard vacuum 24 can be operated to generate a suction airflow into a debris intake 28 defined by the housing 22, through the collection bin 26, and out an exterior vent 30 defined by the housing 22. Debris can be entrained in the suction airflow proximate the debris intake 28 and deposited in the collection bin 26. In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include at least one intake roller 32 rotatable to agitate debris on the floor proximate the debris intake 28 to facilitate entrainment of the debris in the suction airflow created by the onboard vacuum 24. The rotation of the at least one intake roller 32 can also draw debris into the debris intake 28 for entrainment of the debris in the suction airflow created by the onboard vacuum 24. In certain examples, the at least one intake roller 32 can include a cutting device, a mechanical comb or rake, or combinations thereof for cutting or separating clumps of debris as debris is drawn into the debris intake 28.

As depicted in FIG. 1, in an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include a filter 34 positioned between the collection bin 26 and the onboard vacuum 24. The filter 34 can permit the suction airflow to pass through the filter 34 while capturing debris entrained the suction airflow and capturing the debris in the collection bin 26. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the onboard vacuum 24 can be operated to generate a reverse airflow into the exterior vent 30, across the filter 34, and into the collection bin 26. The reverse airflow can free debris captured in the filter 34 to push the debris into collection bin 26. In at least one example, the at least one intake roller 32 can be rotated in a reversed direction to facilitate the generation of the reverse airflow. In certain examples, the onboard vacuum 24 and/or the at least one intake roller 32 can be operated to generate the reversed airflow for a predetermined time period, operated in a pulsed sequence, or cycled between the suction airflow and the reverse airflow to loosen debris captured in the filter.

In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include at least one material collection sensor for monitoring the volume or amount of debris collected by the autonomous vacuum system 20. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can include infrared, optical, laser or other sensors positioned proximate the debris intake 28 for monitoring debris entering through the debris intake 28. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can have weight, pressure, or other sensors connected to the collection bin 26 for monitoring debris captured within the collection bin. The material collection sensor can monitor the debris collected for a variety of metrics including, but not limited to debris collected over certain time periods, operational cycles, and spaces to be cleaned.

In certain examples, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can communicate with a central computer of a home automation system to provide analytics of the debris collected by the autonomous vacuum system. The home automation system can signal the autonomous vacuum system 20 to alter the programming of the autonomous vacuum system 20 to alter the spaces to be cleaned, the cleaning path, the order of the cleaning, the duration or frequency of the cleaning, and other operational parameters of the autonomous vacuum system 20. The altered programming can cause the autonomous vacuum system 20 to focus the operation of the autonomous vacuum system in more critical areas improving battery life, reduce mechanical wear on the machine, reduce maintenance, and other advantages. The home automation system can aggregate the collected information to direct the user to areas of the space that could require deeper cleaning with manual vacuum, steam cleaner, or carpet shampooer system. The home automation system can provide other analytics including, but not limited to the percentage of debris picked up by the robotic vacuum vs. percentage picked up directly with the central vacuum.

In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include an evaluation sensor for determining the debris content. For example, the evaluation sensor can determine if the debris includes, for example, dust, dust mites, pollen, allergens, fecal material, and other materials. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can alter the cleaning pattern, frequency and other parameters according to the content of the debris. In certain examples, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can cease cleaning if dangerous or hazardous materials are detected in the debris to avoid potentially spreading the debris around during the cleaning process. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can also signal the user or a home automation system if dangerous materials are detected in the debris.

In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include at least one environmental sensor for monitoring conditions within the space as the autonomous vacuum system 20 moves through the cleaning process. The environmental sensor can gather the information about temperature, humidity, air quality, and other environmental information. In this configuration, the autonomous vacuum system 20 operates as a remote environmental sensor for the home automation system. The home automation system 20 can use the collected information to operate other devices such as, but not limited to bathroom ventilation fans, kitchen range hoods, balancing ventilation fans or dampers, HVAC systems, or other systems to improve air quality, alter air temperature or other environmental factors.

In an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include an air purifying device operably coupled to the environmental sensors. The air purifying device can be operated to purify air proximate the autonomous vacuum system 20 upon detection of poor air quality or within a designated area to act as a local air purifier. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can be configured to use the air purifier during normal cleaning or parked within a designated space to operate as a local air purifier.

As depicted in FIG. 2, a central vacuum system 50, according to an example of the present disclosure, can include the autonomous vacuum system 20 and a central vacuum 52 fluidly connected to at least one remote intake port 54. The central vacuum 52 can be fluidly connected to the at least one remote intake port 54 with ducting. The central vacuum 52 can be operated to generate a central airflow entering through the remote intake port 54 and out an exterior vent 56. In this configuration, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include an output connector 36 permitting access to the collection bin 26. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can be maneuvered to couple the output connector 36 to the remote intake port 54. The central vacuum 42 can be operated to entrain debris within the collection bin 26 within the central airflow and draw the debris into the remote intake port 54 to empty the collection bin 26. In an example, central vacuum tools and accessories can be coupled to the remote intake port 54 when the autonomous vacuum system 20 is undocked from the remote intake port 54 for conventional operation of the central vacuum system 50.

In an example, the remote intake port 54 can include a contact sensor for detecting connection of the autonomous vacuum system 20 to remote intake port 54. The contact sensor can comprise an electrical connection, a proximity switch, a Hall-effect sensor, a mechanical sensor, or other conventional sensing means for detecting connection of the output connector 36 with the remote intake port 54. Upon detection of the connection of the autonomous vacuum system 20, the central vacuum 52 is operated to create the central airflow. In this configuration, the contact sensor can also detect attachment of the central vacuum tools and accessories to the remote intake port 54 and signal the central vacuum 52 to create the central airflow. In certain examples, the contact sensor can determine if the autonomous vacuum system 20 is coupled to the remote intake port 54 or other tools and accessories are coupled to the remote intake port 54.

In an example, the connection bin 26 can include a bin output valve 38 that can selectively obstruct the output connector 36. The bin output valve 38 can move between a closed position preventing airflow through the output connector 36 and an open position permitting airflow through the output connector 36. In certain examples, the bin output valve 38 can bias toward the closed position, wherein coupling the remote intake port 54 to the output connector 36 moves the bin output valve 38 into the open position permitting airflow through the remote intake port 54 and output connector 36. The weight, velocity, or mechanical apparatus of the autonomous vacuum system 20 can be used to move the bin output valve 38 to the open position. In at least one example, the bin output valve 38 can include a spring loaded pivoting damper mounted on a pivoting hinge. The pivoting damper is biased toward a closed position by the spring to obstruct the output connector 36, wherein engagement of the output connector 36 to the remote intake port 36 pivots the pivoting damper to an open position to permit airflow through the output connector 36.

In an example, the bin output valve 38 can be motorized or otherwise controlled to manually close the bin output valve 38 while the central vacuum 52 is being operated to close off the collection bin 26 from the central airflow. The bin output valve 38 can be closed upon receiving a predetermined trigger signal. The trigger signal can be a time-based delay or a measurement of debris within a collection bin 26. The debris measurement can be a pressure switch, an optical sensor or other conventional system for determining the amount of debris within the collection bin 26 or if the collection bin 26 has been emptied. The central vacuum 52 can be deactivated upon detection of the change in pressure from the closing of the bin output valve 38 and/or upon receiving a transmitted off signal from the remote intake valve 54. The transmitted off signal can be transmitted by hard wiring, wireless signal, or other communication means or protocol.

As depicted in FIG. 4, in an example, the connection bin 26 can define a bin intake 40 through which the suction air flow enters the collection bin 26 from the debris intake 28. In certain examples, the connection bin 26 can include a bin intake valve 42 that can selectively obstruct the bin intake 40. In this configuration, the bin intake valve 42 can close when the central vacuum 52 is drawing the central airflow through the remote intake port 54 to improving the vacuum within the collection bin 26 and efficient emptying of the collection bin 26.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, in an example, the onboard vacuum 24 can be operated to generate a reverse airflow into the exterior vent 30, across the filter 34, and into the collection bin 26. The central vacuum 52 can be simultaneously operated to generate a central airflow entering through the remote intake port 54 and out an exterior vent 56. In this configuration, debris captured in the filter 34 can be freed and drawn through the remote intake port 54 to empty the collection bin 26 and clear the filter 34. In certain examples, the onboard vacuum 24 and the central vacuum 52 can be simultaneously operated to create a reverse airflow. In this configuration, the reverse airflow can clear debris from the debris intake 24, the collection bin 26, the filter 34, and other internal portions of the autonomous vacuum system 20.

As depicted in FIG. 4, in an example, the collection bin 26 includes at least one jet opening 46 permitting one-way airflow into the collection bin 26 through the underside of the collection bin 26. In this configuration, operating the onboard vacuum 24 to generate the suction airflow and/or the central vacuum 52 to draw the central airflow through the remote intake port 54 draws a jet airflow through the jet openings 46. The jet airflow can prevent settling debris or break up the settled debris within the collection bin 26 to facilitate entrainment of the debris into the central airflow. In certain examples, the bin intake valve 42 can be closed to prevent air from entering air through the bin intake 40 to facilitate the drawing of the jet airflow through the jet openings 46.

As depicted in FIGS. 5-8, in an example, the collection bin 26 can include at least one internal wall 48 dividing the collection bin 26 into a plurality of subsections. The internal walls 48 can divide debris entering the collection bin 26 through the bin intake 40 among the subsections to prevent or limit clumping of debris within the collection bin 26. The internal walls 48 can be oriented toward output connector 36 such that debris within the collection bin 26 are funneled toward the output connector 36 as the central airflow is drawn through the remote intake port 54. The internal walls 48 can be straight as illustrated in FIG. 6 or curved as illustrated in FIG. 8. In an example, the collection bin 26 can be curved or otherwise shaped to minimize or eliminate acute angle corners, ribs, protrusions, or other structures that can collect or trap debris within the collection bin 26 when the central airflow is drawn. In an example, the collection bin 26 can include a shaker element to agitate the collection bin 26 to loosen debris within the collection bin 26.

As depicted in FIG. 9, in an example, the central vacuum system 50 can include a dock 60 at the remote intake port 54. The dock 60 can include a docking port 62 fluidly connected to the remote intake port 54 and at least one alignment feature 64 for engaging the housing 22 of the autonomous vacuum system 20. The at least one alignment feature 64 engages the housing 22 of the autonomous vacuum system 20 to align the output connector 36 with the docking port 62 as the moving autonomous vacuum system 20 into connection with the dock 60.

In an example, the dock 60 can be connected to an existing remote intake port 54 to provide a docking port 62 compatible with the autonomous vacuum system 20. In this configuration, the dock 60 can be plumbed in below or adjacent to an existing remote intake port 54. The dock 60 can be connected to the remote intake port 54 by a flexible hose or other connector permitting providing the dock 60 as an accessory of the central vacuum system 50.

As depicted in FIG. 12, in an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can further include an onboard power supply 59 for powering the internal blower 24 and other internal systems of the autonomous vacuum system 20. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can include at least one device contact for receiving an electrical current to charge the onboard power supply 59. In this configuration, the dock 60 can include at least one dock contact positioned to contact the device contact when docking the autonomous vacuum system 20 to the dock 60. The dock contact can be configured to provide the electrical current to the at least one device contact for charging the onboard power supply. In certain examples, the dock 60 can be configured to provide electrical current to the onboard power supply 59 by induction, contact connections, mechanical plug connections, or other conventional means of releasably coupling the onboard power supply 59 to the dock 60 to provide electrical current. In certain examples, the dock 60 can be wirelessly connected or physically connected to the autonomous vacuum system 20 when docked to provide software updates or otherwise alter the programming of the autonomous vacuum system 20.

As depicted in FIG. 10, in an example, the dock 60 can be positioned in a garage housing 64 defining an internal space. The garage housing 64 can have a garage door 66 moveable between an open position permitting access to the internal space and a closed position obstructing access to the internal space. In an example, the garage door 66 is positioned to define a ramp for the autonomous vacuum system 20 when rotating the garage door 66 into the open position. In certain examples, the garage housing 64 can be mounted beneath a cabinet to conceal the garage housing 64 beneath the cabinet.

As depicted in FIG. 11, in an example, the collection bin 26 can include a debris door 70 that can be opened to permit emptying debris from collection bin 26. The central vacuum system 50 can include a floor port 72 for receiving debris emptied from the debris door 70. In this configuration, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can be moved over the floor port 72 empty debris from the collection bin 26 into the floor port 72. When the autonomous vacuum system 20 is not positioned over the floor port 72, debris can be manually swept into the floor port 72. The debris sensor can be configured to operate the central vacuum system 50 when debris is manually swept into the floor port 72 such that the debris is entrained in the central airflow.

As depicted in FIG. 12, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include an interchangeable module 80 including the collection bin 26 and the onboard power supply 59. The interchangeable module 80 can be coupled to the autonomous vacuum system 20 such that the interchangeable module 80 aligns the filter 34, the outtake connector 36, and the bin intake 40 to fluidly connect the collection bin 26 within the interchangeable module 80 to the internal blower 24 and a connected central vacuum 52. In this configuration, the collection system 20, the housing 22 of the autonomous vacuum system 20 can define a module slot 82 for receive the interchangeable module 80. In certain examples, the interchangeable module 80 can include a filter output 84, a secondary connector opening 86, and a secondary bin intake 88 corresponding to the filter 34, the output connector 36, and the bin intake 40. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the secondary connector opening 86 and the secondary bin intake 88 can include a corresponding valve for containing debris within the collection bin 26 when the interchangeable module 80 is removed from the module slot 82.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, in an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can include at least a first interchangeable module 80A receivable within a first module slot 82A and a second interchangeable module 80B receivable within a second module 82B. One or both of the first and second interchangeable modules 80A, 80B can be coupled to the autonomous vacuum system 20. In this configuration, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can be operated with only the first interchangeable module 80A or the second interchangeable module 80B coupled to the autonomous vacuum system 20. This configuration permits the other of the first interchangeable module 80A or the second interchangeable module 80B to be removed and emptied while the autonomous vacuum system 20 continues to operate.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, in an example, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can decouple from the dock 60 and travel about a space along a predetermined path or randomly within the space. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can return to the dock 60 to empty the collection bin 26 upon expiration of a predetermined time period corresponding to the filling of the collection bin 26. In certain examples, the autonomous vacuum system 20 can return to the dock 60 if the at least one material collection system determines that a sufficient volume or amount of debris collected by the autonomous vacuum system is sufficient to fill the collection bin 26. The autonomous vacuum system 20 can be programmed to immediately reverse upon decoupling from the dock 60 to collect any debris that may have been freed upon decoupling of the autonomous vacuum system 20 from the dock 60.

VARIOUS NOTES & EXAMPLES

Example 1 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising: a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake; an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum, the suction airflow drawing debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; and an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin; wherein the output connector is configured to be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.

In Example 2, the subject matter of Example 1 optionally includes a movement system including at least one of a wheel, tracker, roller, gear, or combination thereof for moving the autonomous vacuum system.

In Example 3, the subject matter of Example 2 optionally includes wherein the movement system is operable to move the autonomous vacuum system between a docked position in which the output connector is coupled to the remote intake port and an undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the remote intake port.

In Example 4, the subject matter of Example 3 optionally includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked position.

In Example 5, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 3-4 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the suction airflow while the central vacuum is operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked position to agitate debris within the collection bin.

In Example 6, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 2-5 optionally include wherein the mobile collection further comprises: a controller for operating the movement system to move the autonomous vacuum system within the remote space according to a predetermined pattern; and a memory storage module storing at least the predetermined pattern.

In Example 7, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-6 optionally include at least one barrier sensor for determining the positioning of the autonomous vacuum system within the remote space.

In Example 8, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-7 optionally include at least one roller proximate the debris intake; wherein the at least one roller is rotatable to draw debris into the debris intake.

In Example 9, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-8 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the suction airflow in a pulsed sequence.

Example 10 is a central vacuum system for collecting debris within a remote space, comprising: a central vacuum fluidly connected to a remote intake port, the central vacuum being operable to generate a central airflow into the remote intake port; and an autonomous vacuum system comprising: a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake, an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin, and an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin; wherein the autonomous vacuum system is movable to couple the output connector to the remote intake port such that the central airflow draws debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port.

In Example 11, the subject matter of Example 10 optionally includes wherein the autonomous vacuum system further comprises: a movement system including at least one of a wheel, tracker, roller, gear, or combination thereof for moving the autonomous vacuum system.

In Example 12, the subject matter of Example 11 optionally includes wherein the movement system is operable to move the autonomous vacuum system between a docked position in which the output connector is coupled to the remote intake port and an undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the remote intake port.

In Example 13, the subject matter of Example 12 optionally includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked position.

In Example 14, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 12-13 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the suction airflow while the central vacuum is operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked position to agitate debris within the collection bin.

In Example 15, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 10-14 optionally include wherein the remote intake port is at a predetermined height in a wall defining the remote space.

In Example 16, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 10-15 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the suction airflow in a pulsed sequence.

In Example 17, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 10-16 optionally include a dock for receiving the autonomous vacuum system, the dock comprising: a docking port fluidly connected to the remote intake port; and at least one alignment feature; wherein the at least one alignment feature is configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align the output connector with the docking port.

Example 18 is a method for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising: providing an autonomous vacuum system comprising a collection bin, a debris intake, and an onboard vacuum; operating the onboard vacuum to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; coupling an output connector to a remote intake port, wherein the output connector is fluidly connected to the collection bin; and operating a central vacuum fluidly connected to the remote intake port to generate the central airflow drawing debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port.

In Example 19, the subject matter of Example 18 optionally includes moving the autonomous vacuum system into a docked position in which the output connector is coupled to the remote intake port; and moving the undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the remote intake port.

In Example 20, the subject matter of Example 19 optionally includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked position.

In Example 21, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 19-20 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the suction airflow and the central vacuum operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked position to agitate debris within the collection bin and facilitate moving debris into the remote intake port.

In Example 22, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 18-21 optionally include operating the onboard vacuum to pulse the suction airflow.

In Example 23, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 18-22 optionally include moving the autonomous vacuum system along a predetermined path; wherein the autonomous vacuum system is positioned to coupled the output connector to the remote intake port at one position on the predetermined path.

Example 24 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising: a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake; an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum, the suction airflow drawing debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; and a filter positioned between the collection bin and the onboard vacuum source; wherein the filter captures debris entrained in the suction airflow to retain the debris in the collection bin.

In Example 25, the subject matter of Example 24 optionally includes wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate a reverse airflow across the filter toward the collection bin to free debris trapped in the filter.

In Example 26, the subject matter of Example 25 optionally includes an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin; wherein the output connector is configured to be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.

In Example 27, the subject matter of Example 26 optionally includes wherein the central vacuum is operated to generate the central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port when the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the reverse airflow.

In Example 28, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 25-27 optionally include wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the reverse airflow in a pulsed sequence.

Example 29 is a method for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising: providing an autonomous vacuum system comprising a collection bin, a debris intake, and an onboard vacuum; and operating the onboard vacuum to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; wherein a filter is positioned between the collection bin and the onboard vacuum source to capture debris entrained in the suction airflow to retain the debris in the collection bin.

In Example 30, the subject matter of Example 29 optionally includes operating the onboard vacuum to generate a reverse airflow across the filter toward the collection bin to free debris trapped in the filter.

In Example 31, the subject matter of Example 30 optionally includes coupling an output connector to a remote intake port, wherein the output connector is fluidly connected to the collection bin; and operating a central vacuum fluidly connected to the remote intake port to generate the central airflow drawing debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port.

In Example 32, the subject matter of Example 31 optionally includes operating the central vacuum to generate the central airflow drawing debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port when the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the reverse airflow.

In Example 33, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 29-32 optionally include operating the onboard vacuum to pulse the reverse airflow.

Example 34 is a central vacuum system for collecting debris within a remote space, comprising: a central vacuum fluidly connected to a remote intake port, the central vacuum being operable to generate a central airflow into the remote intake port; and an autonomous vacuum system comprising: a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake, an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin, and an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin; a dock including a docking port fluidly connected to the remote intake port; wherein the autonomous vacuum system is movable to couple the output connector to the docking port such that the central airflow draws debris from the collection bin into the docking port and the remote intake port.

In Example 35, the subject matter of Example 34 optionally includes wherein the dock further comprises: at least one alignment feature configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align the output connector with the docking port.

In Example 36, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 34-35 optionally include that the docking port further comprises a gasket for sealing engagement of the output connector to the docking port.

In Example 37, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 34-36 optionally include wherein the dock further comprises: a garage housing defining an internal space for receiving the autonomous vacuum system; and a garage door moveable between an open position permitting access to the internal space and a closed position obstructing access to the internal space.

In Example 38, the subject matter of Example 37 optionally includes wherein the garage door is positioned to define a ramp for the autonomous vacuum system.

In Example 39, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 37-38 optionally include wherein the garage is mounted beneath a cabinet.

In Example 40, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 34-39 optionally include wherein the autonomous vacuum system further comprises: an onboard power supply for powering the autonomous vacuum system; and at least one device contact for receiving an electrical current to charge the onboard power supply.

In Example 41, the subject matter of Example 40 optionally includes wherein the dock further comprises: at least one dock contact corresponding to the at least one device contact; wherein the at least one dock contact is positioned to contact the at least one device contact to provide the electrical current to the at least one device contact to charge the onboard power supply.

In Example 42, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 34-41 optionally include wherein the remote intake port is at a predetermined height in a wall defining the remote space.

In Example 43, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 34-42 optionally include that the docking port further comprises: a selective valve moveable between a closed position obstructing airflow through the remote intake port and an open position permitting airflow through the remote intake port; wherein the selective valve is biased to the closed position, wherein engagement of the output connector to the docking port moves the selective valve to the open position.

Example 44 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising: a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake, the collection bin further comprises a plurality of interior walls dividing the collection bin into a plurality of interior spaces; and an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; wherein debris drawn into the collection bin is separated by the interior walls into one of the plurality of the interior spaces.

In Example 45, the subject matter of Example 44 optionally includes an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin; wherein the output connector is configured to be coupled to a remote intake port fluidly connected to a central vacuum operable to generate a central airflow to draw debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port positioned in the remote space.

In Example 46, the subject matter of Example 45 optionally includes wherein the interior walls are oriented toward the output connector to funnel debris toward the output connector.

In Example 47, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 45-46 optionally include wherein the internal walls are curved toward the output connector to funnel debris toward the output connector.

In Example 48, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 44-47 optionally include wherein the collection bin defines at least one jet opening; wherein operating the onboard vacuum to generate the suction airflow creates a jet airflow into the collection bin to agitate debris collected within the collection bin.

Example 49 is an autonomous vacuum system for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising: at least one collection assembly including an onboard power supply and a collection bin; and an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow; wherein the at least one collection assembly is configured to be releasably coupled to the onboard vacuum such that the suction airflow is drawn from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin.

In Example 50, the subject matter of Example 49 optionally includes a collection slot for receiving the collection assembly and coupling the collection assembly to the onboard vacuum.

In Example 51, the subject matter of Example 50 optionally includes wherein the collection slot is sized to receive at least a first collection assembly and a second collection assembly.

In Example 52, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 49-51 optionally include that the autonomous vacuum system further includes: a first collection slot for receiving a first collection assembly; and a second collection slot for receiving a second collection assembly; wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to draw debris into at least one of the first collection assembly and the second collection assembly.

In Example 53, the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 49-52 optionally include wherein the autonomous vacuum system defines a first collection slot for receiving a first interchangeable module and defines a second collection slot for receiving a second power-supply collection bin assembly.

Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or more of the other examples.

The above-detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the present subject matter can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as “examples.” Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements were shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

In this document, the terms “a” or “an” are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of “at least one” or “one or more.” In this document, the term “or” is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that “A or B” includes “A but not B,” “B but not A,” and “A and B,” unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Also, in the following claims, the terms “including” and “comprising” are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

Method examples described herein can be machine or computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can include computer readable instructions for performing various methods. The code may form portions of computer program products. Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the like.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the present subject matter should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A central vacuum system for collecting debris within a remote space, comprising: a central vacuum fluidly connected to a remote intake port, the central vacuum being operable to generate a central airflow into the remote intake port; and an autonomous vacuum system comprising: a collection bin fluidly connected to a debris intake, an onboard vacuum operable to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin, and an output connector fluidly connected to the collection bin; wherein the autonomous vacuum system is movable to couple the output connector to the remote intake port such that the central airflow draws debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port.
 2. The central vacuum system of claim 1, wherein the autonomous vacuum system further comprises: a movement system including at least one of a wheel, tracker, roller, gear, or combination thereof for moving the autonomous vacuum system.
 3. The central vacuum system of claim 2, wherein the movement system is operable to move the autonomous vacuum system between a docked position in which the output connector is coupled to the remote intake port and an undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the remote intake port.
 4. The central vacuum system of claim 3, wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked position.
 5. The central vacuum system of claim 3, wherein the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the suction airflow while the central vacuum is operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked position to agitate debris within the collection bin.
 6. The central vacuum system of claim 1, wherein the remote intake port is at a predetermined height in a wall defining the remote space.
 7. The central vacuum system of claim 1, wherein the onboard vacuum is operable to generate the suction airflow in a pulsed sequence.
 8. The mobile system of claim 1, wherein the autonomous vacuum system further comprises: at least one roller proximate the debris intake; wherein the at least one roller is rotatable to draw debris into the debris intake.
 9. The central vacuum system of claim 1, further comprising: a dock for receiving the autonomous vacuum system, the dock comprising: a docking port fluidly connected to the remote intake port; and at least one alignment feature; wherein the at least one alignment feature is configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align the output connector with the docking port.
 10. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the dock further comprises: at least one alignment feature configured to engage the autonomous vacuum system to align the output connector with the docking port.
 11. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the dock further comprises: a garage housing defining an internal space for receiving the autonomous vacuum system; and a garage door moveable between an open position permitting access to the internal space and a closed position obstructing access to the internal space.
 12. The central vacuum system of claim 11, wherein the garage is mounted beneath a cabinet.
 13. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the autonomous vacuum system further comprises: an onboard power supply for powering the autonomous vacuum system; and at least one device contact for receiving an electrical current to charge the onboard power supply.
 14. The central vacuum system of claim 13, wherein the dock further comprises: at least one dock contact corresponding to the at least one device contact; wherein the at least one dock contact is positioned to contact the at least one device contact to provide the electrical current to the at least one device contact to charge the onboard power supply.
 15. The central vacuum system of claim 9, wherein the docking port further comprises: a selective valve moveable between a closed position obstructing airflow through the remote intake port and an open position permitting airflow through the remote intake port; wherein the selective valve is biased to the closed position, wherein engagement of the output connector to the docking port moves the selective valve to the open position.
 16. A method for collecting debris in a remote space, comprising: providing an autonomous vacuum system comprising a collection bin, a debris intake, and an onboard vacuum; operating the onboard vacuum to generate a suction airflow from the debris intake into the collection bin to the onboard vacuum to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin; coupling an output connector to a remote intake port, wherein the output connector is fluidly connected to the collection bin; and operating a central vacuum fluidly connected to the remote intake port to generate the central airflow drawing debris from the collection bin into the remote intake port.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: moving the autonomous vacuum system into a docked position in which the output connector is coupled to the remote intake port; and moving the undocked position in which the output connector is decoupled to the remote intake port.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the suction airflow to draw debris through the debris intake into the collection bin when the autonomous vacuum system is in the undocked position.
 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the onboard vacuum is operated to generate the suction airflow and the central vacuum operated to generate the central airflow when in the docked position to agitate debris within the collection bin and facilitate moving debris into the remote intake port.
 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising: operating the onboard vacuum to pulse the suction airflow.
 21. The method of claim 16, further comprising: moving the autonomous vacuum system along a predetermined path; wherein the autonomous vacuum system is positioned to coupled the output connector to the remote intake port at one position on the predetermined path. 